One missing coaching qualification is currently stopping Steven Naismith from donning a manager’s hat.But the former Scotland striker insists he has no regrets over shelving badges in favour of caps and hanging his shirt in the SFA Hall of Fame.Naismith can’t become the boss at Hearts until he’s passed his pro licence.
That’s what the blazers at UEFA dictate and he accepts it as he assumes the role of Tynecastle technical director with Frankie McAvoy assuming the frontman role in the management team.
But the 36-year-old - who won the last of his 51 Scotland caps four years ago - reckons the two-year process should be more flexible especially for players who want to become coaches but still have a foot in international football.Naismith certainly isn’t taking a back seat as the Jambos go through their paces in the searing heat of Marbella.
But the qualifications will have to wait for now as the former Rangers and Everton striker gets to work alongside McAvoy and coach Gordon Forrest in shaping Hearts for the new season ahead.He said: “From playing at the highest level and being an international player I have found the badges challenging.
Read more on dailyrecord.co.uk